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Orange Crush Poke Cake

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This nostalgic cake bursts with citrus flavor, orange soda, and a fluffy cream cheese whipped topping—perfect for picnics and potlucks!

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Total Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 box yellow cake mix

Ingredients as listed on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the Poke Filling:

1 can (12 oz / 355 ml) orange soda (e.g., Orange Crush)

1 package (3.4 oz / 96 g) orange gelatin (Jell-O), dry

For the Topping:

8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

½ cup powdered sugar

2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks

Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Fresh orange slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Bake the Cake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare cake batter according to box instructions, adding vanilla if using. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake 25–30 minutes or as directed. Let cool slightly.

Poke the Cake:
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or fork, poke holes evenly across the surface of the warm cake.

Add Soda & Gelatin:
Pour orange soda evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Immediately sprinkle the dry orange gelatin over the soda-soaked cake. Gently press down to help it dissolve.

Chill:
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1–2 hours so the gelatin sets.

Make the Topping:
In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped cream until light and fluffy.

Frost:
Spread topping evenly over the chilled cake.

Garnish & Serve:
Top with orange zest and fresh orange slices if desired. Slice and serve cold.

Notes

Use freshly whipped cream for best texture. Avoid frozen whipped topping for a richer flavor.

Optional: For extra orange flavor, add a few drops of orange extract to the frosting.

Store cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.